I leave with a heart full of gratitude and pride

Balliu retires from international football after nine years and 24 caps for Albania, with his last appearance in March against Ukraine.

Iván Balliu, Rayo Vallecano's right-back, announced on Monday that he is retiring from international football with Albania. The 34-year-old made his debut for the national team on 6 October 2017 against Spain in a 2018 World Cup qualifier and accumulated 24 caps, with his final appearance coming on 31 March against Ukraine.

Balliu reflected on his nine-year international career in a social media post, describing it as one of the most significant chapters of his life. He highlighted his participation in Euro 2024 as one of his proudest moments and expressed gratitude for the friendships and memories built during his time with the national team.

"The national team became my second family and representing Albania has always been one of the greatest honours of my career," he said. Balliu is in his sixth season at Rayo Vallecano, having joined the club in 2021.